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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 31 Oct 1962

Vol. 197 No. 2

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Helicopters.

14.

asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether it has yet been decided to acquire helicopters for sea-rescue and other purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

15.

Mr. Ryan

asked the Minister for Transport and Power if the consultations between Government Departments regarding the acquisition of helicopters for rescue work, and agricultural, industrial and military uses have been completed; and, if so, with what result.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 15 together.

As indicated in reply to a question on this subject on 11th July, 1962, the need for helicopter rescue facilities is being examined by an inter-Departmental Committee. The Committee have not yet furnished their report and I am not, therefore, in a position to make a statement on the matter. I understand, however, that the report will very shortly be available.

Will the Minister have regard to the fact that there is a certain amount of urgency because we are coming into another winter where bad weather may make seacoast rescue difficult, and therefore have a decision taken at the earliest possible moment?

We are doing the utmost to get an expeditious decision but the matter will have to be considered when the report is received.

You have been considering it over the past few years.

Will the Minister bear in mind the proximity of Galway to a number of disasters and base the proposed helicopter in that area?

A good many disasters take place where a helicopter may serve no purpose.

And many where they may be of use as well.

A British helicopter took the men off the boat at Wexford. You were helpless.

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